"Due to overwhelming global demand for Galaxy S4, the initial supply may be limited. We expect to fulfil inventory to meet demands in the coming weeks," read a statement from Samsung.

British retailers Carphone Warehouse and Phones 4U have been inundated with pre-orders, and the latter has confirmed that there will be no devices in stores until next week.

"All available stock will be used to fulfil pre-orders before going into our stores and we are working with Samsung to ensure that all pre-orders and sales across our other channels are fulfilled as quickly as possible," said a Phones 4U spokesperson.

"We anticipate that handsets will be in store next week but cannot confirm an exact date."

Next
Samsung has unveiled its brand new Galaxy S4 smartphone at its high-profile 'Unpacked 2013' launch event in New York City.
Copyright: PA Images Jason DeCrow / AP
1 of 10

Stock will arrive in Carphone Warehouse stores, but will be limited during the launch weekend.

"We have seen huge customer interest in the Samsung Galaxy S4," said the retailer. "Our number one priority is our customers, and we are working hard to ensure that we fulfil as many pre-orders for the handset as possible.

"We will ensure that every customer impacted by any supply issues is contacted and informed of the likely delivery of their new handset."

American networks Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile have delayed offering the handset until supplies are readily available.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 is now available in the UK through O2, EE, Orange, T-Mobile, Three, Vodafone, Virgin Media and Tesco Mobile, as well as high street retailers Carphone Warehouse and Phones 4U.